Large Herding Group

German Shepherd Dog

Also called Alsatian, Deutscher Schäferhund and GSD

Great with kids
Easy to train
Needs space
Needs lots of exercise
Sheds a lot

The German Shepherd Dog is a large breed that originated in Germany in the late 19th century. They are a working breed, and can be used for a variety of tasks, from herding and guarding to search and rescue. They have a thick double coat, in a variety of colors, and are highly intelligent and loyal. They are an active breed, and need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.

Weight: 49–88 lb (22–40 kg)
Height at the shoulder: 22–26 in (55–65 cm)
Life span: 7–10 years
Exercise: About 90 minutes a day
Coat: Medium, Double
Origin: Swabia/Thuringia, Germany (late 19th century (1899))

Traits

Family and friends

Children: Good with children
Other dogs: OK with other dogs
Strangers: Polite with strangers

Home and activity

Energy: Energetic
Apartment living: Needs space
Barking: Barks sometimes
Training: Very easy to train

Care

Grooming: Regular brushing
Shedding: Sheds a lot
Drooling: Drools a little

Temperament

Confident Courageous Intelligent Loyal Versatile Watchful

Coat colours

Black, black and red, black and tan, black with tan/red/brown markings, grey/black and grey and sable

Males and females

Measure	Males	Females
Weight	66–88 lb (30–40 kg)	49–71 lb (22–32 kg)
Height	24–26 in (60–65 cm)	22–24 in (55–60 cm)

Recognized by

American Kennel Club (AKC), Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC), Canadian Kennel Club (CKC), Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), The Kennel Club (UK) (KC), New Zealand Kennel Club (NZKC) and United Kennel Club (UKC)